New Kobo Brings Touch Screens To eReaders

The Amazon Kindle may be the market leader, but there are plenty of other options when it comes to eReaders. And now one of those options has just got a little more tempting, as Kobo has unveiled a brand new touch screen enabled device.

The new eReader still uses the standard eInk screen that makes these devices so great for long-form reading, but has also made introducing touch screen capabilities somewhat of a problem. To get around this, the Kobo uses infrared sensors to determine where your fingers are on the screen.

The touch interface will be used for navigating menus, typing via a virtual keyboard, and simulating real-world page turning. Kobo Touch Edition features the same rubberized quilted back as previous editions and weighs just 200 grams. Additionally, the new device includes the Reading Life app — which records your reading stats and offers up virtual rewards — previously only available through smartphone and tablet apps.

You can pre-order the Kobo Touch Edition from Borders right now for $129.99.